Coachella Valley Weekly - April 9 to April 15, 2020 Vol. 9 No. 4

coachellavalleyweekly.com • April 9 to April 15, 2020

Small Business Administration

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Child Abuse Prevention Month

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Desert Music

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Ernie Ball

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Vol.9 No.4

The Real Italian Deli

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

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Coachella Valley Weekly (760) 501-6228

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LIFE GOES ON: MORE CHANGES AMID COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND HOMEBUYING California has drastically been affected, going down 30% over the last month to the lowest levels in six years. There were 8,837 new escrows in the last 30 days, the lowest count since January 2014. The efforts to halt the pandemic’s spread has caused business limitations and closures statewide, and least 1.5 million California residents have filed for unemployment benefits.

“The housing market, as well as the agents, have been drastically affected. I personally have cancelled several escrows due to buyers backing out. We are dealing with a lot of ‘unknowns’: virus unknowns, financial unknowns, and business unknowns.

We have new disclosures, new protocols, and a new way of looking at everything in general.

We are charting through unknown times,” stated local real estate agent Anthony Bauer (BRE#01253129).

Bauer believes that the real estate market will reflect the economy, with the longer that the majority of workers are unable to work, the larger the impact will be. As some sellers pulled houses off the market due to COVID concerns, others might be putting their houses on the market due to financial concerns.

“Obviously with more inventory, we will see more deals. And hopefully people will not make decisions based on fear. Every storm will pass. And if you are happy in your home then ride it out if you can. Prices will go up and down. Just remember the big picture and take it one day at a time,” advised Bauer.

Bauer recognizes the different reasons that people have for buying or selling a home, and he would like to spend as much time upfront with his clients to know their reasons why to educate them and make sure they make the best decisions to meet their goals. For more information, reach out to Bauer at 760-8806037 or visit www.anthonybauerbroker.com.

Patti Gribow (CAL BRE#01987155) is another realtor that recognizes that life is ever-changing right now. She is fortunate to work with the company, Compass, and to be a team member of Valery Neuman Real Estate. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a reduction in the number of transactions, up to 30% in many areas.

Gribow recognizes that at this point, there is no way to know how it will impact the housing market in the future, but the first thing to watch is how lenders may tighten qualifications.

Publisher & Editor Tracy Dietlin Art Director Robert Chance Sales Team Kirby Club Crawler Nightlife Editor Phil Lacombe Head Music Writer Noe Gutierrez Head Feature Writer Crystal Harrell Feature Writers Lisa Morgan, Rich Henrich, Heidi Simmons, Tricia Witkower, Jason Hall, Esther Sanchez Writers/Contributors: Robin Simmons, Rick Riozza, Eleni P. Austin, Craig Michaels, Janet McAfee, Bronwyn Ison, Haddon Libby, Sam DiGiovanna, Dale Gribow, Denise Ortuno Neil, Rob Brezny, Dr. Peter Kadile, Dee Jae Cox, Angela Romeo, Aaron Ramson, Lynne Tucker, Aimee Mosco, Michelle Anne Rizzio, Ruth Hill, Madeline Zuckerman Photographers Robert Chance, Laura Hunt Little, Chris Miller, Iris Hall, Esther Sanchez Videographer Kurt Schawacker Website Editor Bobby Taffolla Distribution Phil Lacombe, William Westley

CONTENTS COVID-19 & Homebuying....................... 3 Haddon Libby .......................................... 4 Child Abuse Prevention Month ............. 4 Desert Music Happenings II.................... 5 Splash House Posponed .......................... 5 *NEW* VIRTUAL VIEWING ........................... 6 Ernie Ball® Coachella Makes Masks........... 6 Consider This - Game Theory.................. 7 Pet Place ..................................................... 8 The Vino Voice ......................................... 9 Brewtality............................................... 10 Good Grub - The Real Italian Deli......... 10

April 9 to April 15, 2020

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL

“It is still possible to buy and sell a home, as transactions are still closing. In addition, people are seemingly adapting to the new ways of going through the process virtually. Today partnering with clients in finding them a home has never been more important, and we stand ready to digitally walk with them through that journey,” encouraged Gribow. (valeryneuman.com/ agents/patti-gribow) Chris Miller, owner and photographer at One Point Media Group, is not an expert on the real estate market, but his workload involving taking photographs of listed properties, has dropped by about 60% in the last couple weeks.

“There are just a lot fewer people listing homes right now, it seems. We have had a decent amount of new business providing 360 tours on old listings, though. There seems to be a strong nationwide trend towards these 360 tours of homes, because realtors cannot show homes in person right now,” said Miller.

(Visit onepointmediagroup.com for more information.)

Real estate agents and those involved in the housing market remain optimistic about the future, however, because of the resilience of the American people, yet are realistic due to the gravity of the crisis.

Anthony Bauer

Screeners ................................................ 11 Safety Tips ...............................................11 Dale Gribow ........................................... 12 Health - Keto........................................... 12 Mind, Body & Spirit ............................... 13 Free Will Astrology................................ 13

Patti Gribow

Chris Miller

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

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HADDON LIBBY

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have been trying to help small businesses, sole proprietorships and 1099 workers in navigating the labyrinth known as Federal relief related to the CARES Act, existing SBA lending programs and unemployment options. After weeks trying to help businesses and people of all socio-economic backgrounds, I can say with confidence that as of this writing, most small businesses and 1099 workers need to come up with their own relief plans as the federal assistance programs are overwhelmed. The harsh truth is that you need to be prepared that relief may not arrive until the summer.

You still need to apply for government assistance as some should eventually get to the Coachella Valley but be prepared for a long wait.

To help you understand my concern, consider the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). PPP was meant for small businesses with less than 500 employees and gig economy or 1099 workers. $350 billion in Federal assistance was availed via the $2 Trillion CARES Act. As the demand for this relief would outstrip the staffing of an already overwhelmed Small Business Administration, the Federal government rightly chose to outsource this work to the banks and credit unions to help the SBA through this once in two lifetimes event.

When the time came for most small businesses to apply, a sadly funny thing happened. Banks like Wells Fargo were full

COMMUNITY

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up on PPP loan requests before the majority of their small business clients had a chance to apply. Wells Fargo was not alone as many other banks would only help their clients with outstanding loans. Others would not help their clients at all. Generally, clients without loans were sent to the back of the line. This created a problem as the initial rollout of PPP was designed to go through your primary bank as they have the records needed to prove your need and can act far more quickly than any other option.

While another $250 billion is being directed to PPP, with the addition of 1099 workers along with all of the businesses excluded in the first round of relief, the current addition to funding will remain too little to satisfy demand.

If the money isn’t getting to most small businesses in the Coachella Valley, where is it going?

Simply put, the government enlisted the banks to essentially choose the winners and losers for the first round of PPP money. As

funds availed via in PPP were insufficient to meet demand, banks appear to have chosen to help the clients who put the bank’s existence at risk first – their borrowers. By securing enough of these funds for their most important clients that qualified for the program, it insured that the banks would have a little more breathing room to deal with the economic fallout from COVID-19.

This approach to divvying up economic relief is similar to an ICU unit overwhelmed

by COVID-19 cases. At some point, medical professionals have to make life and death decisions as to who gets respirators and who is relegated almost certain death. This same mindset seems to be what the banks and many parts of the federal government are doing – making life and death decisions on which companies will get the cash needed to survive the shutdown.

While this seems like a form of Darwinism, a major fault rests in giving people unreasonable hopes that relief is a few days or weeks away. The harsh reality for most small businesses in the Coachella Valley is that they are not of strategic importance to the banks that they do business nor are they or critical importance to the national economy.

As these various relief programs have been rolled out in record time, it should be expected that the programs will have issues.

Patience is the key to getting the relief as it could take months for monies to get to

many small businesses. While funding will run out, the President, Congress and Senate leaders have all stated that they would add more funding in a future bill and that those who need assistance should ultimately get assistance. The challenge for many is to survive long enough for the initial clusterfuck of a roll-out to get smoothed out with additional funds added.

If you are in need of federal relief like PPP and your bank is not helping, email your elected leaders, Congressmen or Senators and tell them of your situation. While they may not have an answer today, these are the times when you need to let your voice be heard.

Haddon Libby is the Founder and Managing Partner of Winslow Drake Investment Management. To contact Haddon, please email Hlibby@WinslowDrake.com or call 760.449.6349.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH IN QUARANTINE

pril is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

With statewide orders to shelter in place in the coming weeks to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), atrisk families are feeling the effects of the pandemic. Schools are shut down until the following academic year and some parents/ guardians either work from home or have filed for unemployment, which means that families are staying home full-time, leaving a window for potential explosiveness.

The Children's Bureau, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,

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SMALL BUSINESS IS FU%#ED

funds the National Child Abuse Prevention Month initiative each April on the Child Welfare Information Gateway.

According to the Children’s Bureau, about 4.3 million reports were made to child protective services concerning the safety and well-being of approximately 7.8 million children in 2018. Last year, an estimated 678,000 children were found to be victims of child abuse or neglect nationwide.

COVID-19 can put additional pressure on already vulnerable children, youth, and families. The child welfare field is continuing to support families in this time

of increased stress. Various resources found on the Administration for Children & Families website outline guidance for social workers dealing with the virus and can help caregivers think about how an infectious disease outbreak might affect their family.

Olive Crest is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse, treating and educating at-risk children, and preserving the family. The organization has a branch in Palm Desert to serve families in the Coachella Valley.

Olive Crest’s mission is to reunite every child with his or her family. The goal for those in the Foster to Adoption program is that they will be successfully matched with a forever family and adopted. Teens in these programs are emancipated as independent adults, or move to a Transitional Housing program whereas youth participating in the Family Preservation programs are not removed from their homes and remain with their biological families. “‘Child Abuse Stops Here’ is not just a tag line for us. It is our vision and the goal we all work toward every day. We work with the children in our community through referrals that come from Riverside County Department of Public Social Services, Child Welfare Agency. Much of our preventive work is done through private donations and a faith-based volunteer program called Safe Families for Children,” said Angela Allen,

BY CRYSTAL HARRELL the Olive Crest Development Manager of the Palm Desert branch.

Due to the CDC guidelines, Olive Crest’s foster parents have had limited access to the practical support that usually surrounds them. Services such as babysitting, playdates, and Sunday school are on hold in order to keep everyone safe and healthy during the quarantine. Despite the limitations, the Olive Crest teams are finding new means of checking in with families more frequently through the use of phone and video visits to ensure that everyone still feels supported even during the pandemic.

“Our entire organization is focused on stopping child abuse. That may seem an impossible goal, but we actually have a bold plan of action in place that when fully implemented will have a tremendous impact in reducing the number of children entering the child welfare system annually nationwide. Everyone can do something to help,” said Allen.

Visit olivecrest.org to learn more about the organization and to learn how you can help children in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

LOCAL MUSIC

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ach week Coachella Valley Weekly will provide you with an update on several of our favorite artists and what they are up to.

CALL UPON YOUR GODS Only a year after forming, Melodic Death Metal deities Call Upon Your Gods will be releasing their first full-length album POST OBLIVION on Monday, April 13, 2020. To counteract the pandemic, the band has decided to offer the album as a digital download for FREE through a “limited release” to Metal heads around the world! The band plans to have the album available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music as well as offer physical copies in the near future.

Band members RC Torres (guitars), Joe Lynn (vocals), Justin Cira (drums) and Woody (bass) have plowed through the last year performing live throughout Southern California. Their scheduled May 26th gig at The Rainbow Bar and Grill in Hollywood with Taipan has yet to be postponed but the band remains persistent.

The first two releases from the new album are the songs “Weight Of Your Cross” and “Stand Infinite.” Immediately out of the gate, CUYG establishes a certain Metal posture that is commendable. RC Torres guitar work is magnificent. Torres holds his own here as the lone guitarist. Engaging in the proper amount of crunch while peppering each song with fascinating fretwork and melodious solos.

Lynn’s Death growl vocals continue to amaze us all these years later. He has reached a level of maturation and poise in a genre that is highly marginalized around the world. You’ll remember Lynn and Torres from arguably the valley’s first big die-hard Metal band Remnants of Man. Both Wood and Cira are bandmates in another powerhouse Coachella Valley Metal band In The Name Of The Dead. Wood’s bass playing is set in stone and goes without saying while Cira provides the framework through

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DESERT MUSIC HAPPENINGS II

his dynamic drumming. Together, Wood and Cira have put an edge on CUYG that sets them apart from the others.

Coachella Valley Weekly spoke with Torres and Lynn about Post Oblivion: CVW: As a band, how are you guys coping with the pandemic?

Torres: "We just want everyone to know that we are all in this together, and we hope everyone is doing their best to help prevent the spread by staying home.”

CVW: Why did you decide to release the album now?

Lynn: “We had planned to release this album right about now when the world was still in order, we planned to release a hard copy to promote and sell at shows the way our other bands had always done in the past.

When the ‘shelter in place’ began it felt right to release the album digitally so anyone at home would have access to it and to top it off, we thought giving it away for free would help relieve the stress from our friends, family and fans during the pandemic.”

Torres: “Releasing the album for free is our way of saying we appreciate everyone who has supported us along the way, and we hope that this can be another small way to help ease the time during quarantine.”

CVW: RC, you’ve been working not this music for some time now. What can you share about your journey in this band?

Torres: “For me personally, this album was a true labor of love. Everything was done DIY. It was written during the past four years which were a very difficult and transitional time for me. A lot changed in my life from five years ago, and to cope, I turned to the one thing I know; writing music.”

CVW: Anything else you’d like to say to our readers and your fans?

Lynn: “All we ask is that you share it with anyone who’d care to hear it. We can’t wait until this thing is over so we can all get together and rock out live!”

Torres: “We hope everyone digs it, from home of course.” calluponyourgods.com calluponyourgodsbandcamp.com Weight Of Your Cross (Official Video): youtu.be/zyVjwH5mC40 Stand Infinite (Official Video): youtu.be/sGJovyKXj7k

April 9 to April 15, 2020

BY NOE GUTIERREZ project. We are expecting to release more tracks this summer and fall for a total of four by the end of December. Car Ride (Daydream) holds a lot of the true sounds we are aiming to release in the up and coming seasons. We hope you enjoy the new single!”

Listen to their song, "Car Ride (Daydream)" on Spotify: open.spotify.com/ album/7vlpzuYUolMne8yCJuCuNG RIVAL ALASKA We haven’t heard from bandmaster James Johnson and Rival Alaska in quite some time.

On April 6, 2020 they released the single Car Ride (Daydream). The band includes Johnson (Vocalist/Guitar/Programmer), Max Powell (Bassist/Programmer) and Hugo Chavez (Drummer/Technical).

The single is idealistic with its intro of keyboards leading into a bass drum beat that could conceivably be imagined under the Gobi Tent at Coachella, kaleidoscope in tow. You can make no bones about the running bass line. At the 3:00 mark, a surprising new melody is gifted by virtue of the listener’s patience.

With no noticeable lyrics, I’m not sure this an instrumental given the phantasmic vocalizing.

Rival Alaska is an American Indie-Rock group formed in early 2012 with original members Powell and Chavez and Johnson.

The secured group is an idealistic trio of ‘been there, done that’ musicians who continue to amplify opportunities with fresh musical perspectives. Their debut full-length album Vinyl Image helped earn them support slots for singer-songwriter Andy Grammer, Alternative Rock band Fishbone and vocalist Jacquie Lee. CV Weekly briefly spoke with Johnson: James Johnson: “Car Ride (Daydream) is one of our first singles to be released in over a year. We have continued to collaborate with our previous member John, and involved a lot more of our synthesizer dream-state to this

THE CMFs The CMFs are well known for their high energy music and live shows, but did you know Joseph Vaughan, Jasyn Smith and Matt King have a seriously deviant and warped sense of humor? There’s really no way to describe their videos so you’ll just have to visit their YouTube channel, link below. We caught up with King to give us more about their non-musical sides.

King: “Having been exploring our talents playing shows across the valley for many years now, we decided to try our hand in some sketch comedy. We would always joke around about dumb ideas for sketches, and even used to do our own little comedy radio show just to make each other laugh. It was the same concept, but strictly audio, and we did those a few years ago. Recently, we decided to buy a green screen, a mixer, and a laptop, and we started revisiting those sketches and adding video. We already know we can make music, so we wanted to try a new adventure in making comedic videos. It’s been a blast creating them and we picked a perfect time to start uploading them, with everyone being trapped at home and whatnot. Check out our YouTube channel for sketches, jam videos, and more!” soundcloud.com/thecmfs youtube.com/user/TheClassyMotherFkers You can reach Noe Gutierrez at: Phone: (760) 485-0948 Email: desertmusic1@gmail.com

SPLASH HOUSE RESCHEDULES TO AUGUST

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fter careful thought and in following the guidance of local, state, and national authorities we are sad to announce that our June edition of Splash House will not take place this year. The safety and well-being of our audience, artists, staff, and community must come first as we focus on overcoming this health emergency.

At this moment we are moving forward with August weekends as planned and sincerely hope you can join us. June purchasers will receive an email from our official ticket provider, Elevate, by April 10 with options to transfer your purchase to either August 2020 weekend or June 2021. If you are unable to attend then you may request a refund in full.

For hotel package holders transferring to August 2020 please understand we cannot guarantee the same room type will be available

as many are already sold, however we will do our best to facilitate a smooth process.

We’ve also paused all payment plans for April in light of the many personal challenges we are all facing at this moment. No action is required on your end and balances will be reallocated on future payments on your normally scheduled payment date.

We appreciate your patience and support and are looking forward to sunnier days ahead.

Be safe.

- Splash House

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

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MUSIC INTRODUCING THE NEW “VIRTUAL VIEWING” SECTION FOR POSTINGS OF LIVE MUSIC FROM ARTIST’S LIVING ROOMS

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emember back in the day when we had to choose between seeing only one show a night because we didn’t want to take the risk of getting a DUI driving from a show at Palm Canyon Roadhouse to a show at The Hood and then on to Big Rock Pub and then out to Date Shed?

And we certainly couldn’t afford to Uber to all those places in one night and still have drink money.

Way back in the olden days of February 2020. Well as we know things have changed drastically and we can no longer go to the bars to see our favorite bands play. However, we can try to look at the positive of home isolation as it pertains to music.

A few weeks ago, when this all began, CV Weekly did our first “CVCV Virtual Festival” on FB Live with 28 artists participating. Since then all genres of musicians across the valley have been doing amazing heartfelt FB Live shows that you can enjoy in the comfort of your living room, in your

THURSDAY:

Date Shed – Provoked – Facebook – 11am, 4 and 7pm Warsaw Poland Bros – Facebook – 11:30am Tony Licker (T-Lick) – Facebook – 6pm Cody White and the Easy Ride – Facebook – 7:30pm

PJs, with or without makeup ladies, or your hair done, you can drink as much as you want without worrying about getting a DUI, and you can watch several of your favorite musicians in one night without leaving the house.

Okay... I realize it’s not the same, but at least we get to interact with them live on FB and leave them comments for them to see in real time and they get to give shout outs to their fans.

So since the Club Crawler isn’t necessary right now I decided to create the “Virtual Viewing” section in its place... for now...so musicians can let their fans know in advance when they will be going live. Don’t forget to tip them in their virtual tip jars. And if anyone wants to help support CV Weekly during this difficult time so we can keep this all going online, we will appreciate your support.

You can donate to our PayPal account – Name: CV Weekly. aEmail Publisher@coachellavalleyweekly. com.

FRIDAY:

Date Shed – Slipping Into Darkness – Facebook – 11am,4 and 7pm Slim Man – Facebook – 5pm Rose Mallett – Facebook – 5pm Vinny Berry – Facebook – 6pm Derek Jordan Gegg and Jetta King – Facebook – 6pm

Michael Keeth – Facebook – 7-8:30pm Tack Room Tavern – Lance Riebsomer – Facebook – 8:30pm

SATURDAY:

Date Shed – Mozaiq – Facebook – 11am, 4 and 7pm

SUNDAY:

Date Shed – Bo Napoleon – Facebook – 11am, 4 and 7pm Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs – Facebook – 2pm Derek Jordan Gregg and Jetta King – Facebook – 2pmish Pete Campbell (Versastyle) – Facebook – 4:20pm

Blasting Echo – Facebook – 5pm Krystofer Do – Facebook – 7-9:30pm

MONDAY:

Slim Man – Facebook - 5pm

TUESDAY:

Rose Mallett – Facebook – 6:30pm Michael Keeth – Facebook – 7-8:30pm

WEDNESDAY:

Slim Man – Facebook - 5pm

COMMUNITY GUITAR STRING MANUFACTURER ERNIE BALL TO BE DONATED TO LOCAL CHARITIES AND COACHELLA VALLEY RESIDENTS BEGINS PRODUCTION OF FACE MASKS MASKS

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rnie Ball, the world's leading manufacturer of premium guitar strings, bass strings, and guitar accessories has harmonized its string making for musicians with something everyone needs these days, face masks, to assist during this novel coronavirus outbreak.

The guitar accessories plant, located in Coachella, has transformed a portion of its manufacturing facility to produce approximately 400, two-ply 100% cotton knit jersey masks each day to help meet the community’s increased need. This comes on the heels of the Riverside County mandate that everyone wear facial protection while outside.

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“We are dedicating our accessories and strap manufacturing departments to producing mask and are making it a top priority,” said Brian Ball, CEO of Ernie Ball.

“The Coachella Valley is our home and we want to help both local charities and the residents as well.”

The first several runs of masks will be donated to the employees and clienteles of Martha’s Village and other Coachella Valley organizations.

“This is an amazing, potentially life-saving donation and fulfills a very important need for both our frontline staff and more than 120 homeless residents, of which over half are families with children, that otherwise cannot afford masks,” said

Linda Barrack, President & CEO of Martha’s Village. “We have over 60 employees that are working very hard to keep up with the rising level of services from the community during this pandemic and this will help to continue to ensure their safety.”

In the near future, Ernie Ball plans to make masks available to all Coachella Valley residents for free. Residents will be able to sign up online and a free mask will be delivered to their home.

“We will be sure to alert residents when masks are available,” commented Ball.

“We believe it’s by joining together that we stay strong and we are proud to play a role in helping our community be safe.”

CONSIDER THIS

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ne of life’s great mysteries is how does mediocre music attain popularity, fame riches and success, and brilliant artists are relegated to cult status. In a perfect world, Game Theory would have ruled the air waves, sold millions of records and become as ubiquitous as the Beatles, while Bon Jovi would have been consigned to the cut-out bins, vaguely remembered for their bouncin’ and behavin’ Breck Girl hair and Yeti-like chest fur.

Game Theory was formed by Scott Miller in 1982. Born in 1960, Scott was raised in Sacramento and came of age just in time to become besotted with both the Beatles and the Monkees. He began learning guitar at age nine, two years later he formed his first band, which he named The Monkees. He spent his teen years cycling through a series of groups. By the time he was attending college at UC Davis, he was fronting a three-piece called Alternate Learning (sometimes known as ALRN). Together from 1977 until 1981, they recorded a 7” EP as well as a full-length album for Rational Records.

A couple of ALRN members joined Scott when he formed Game Theory, but there were myriad line-up changes throughout its nine year run.

Their debut, Blaze Of Glory arrived in late 1982.

Without enough funds to create a proper album cover, the first 1,000 records were packaged in garbage bags with the liner notes and photocopied cover art glued to the bag.

Even from its earliest incarnation, Game Theory’s sound was paired melodies that were equal parts pithy Power Pop and opulent Psychedelia, with literate and labyrinthine lyrics.

Although they were based in the Bay Area, they formed a simpatico relationship with Los Angeles’ Paisley Underground bands which included The Bangles, The Dream Syndicate, Rain Parade and The Three O’ Clock. In fact, Three O’ Clock frontman Michael Quercio produced one of the two EPs the band released in 1983.

Game Theory signed with esteemed indie label Enigma in 1984 and were subsequently matched with producer Mitch Easter. Mitch has made his bones in ‘70s Power Pop bands like Rittenhouse Square and Sneakers. By the early ‘80s he began making a name for himself as a producer on R.E.M.’s earliest albums. Mitch’s jangle aesthetic provided a perfect foundation for Scott and the band. Their second long-player, Real Nighttime was released in 1985 and received unanimous critical acclaim. Extensive touring and exposure on college radio stations meant the band was beginning to build a loyal following.

Mitch remained producer on consecutive albums. Over the next four years they collaborated on 1986’s Big Shot Chronicles, as well as 1987’s magnum opus, the double-LP, Lolita Nation and their final studio effort, Two Steps From The Middle Ages. But commercial success eluded the band and by the ‘90s Scott had pulled the plug, starting a new band, The Loud Family.

The new moniker came from television’s first reality series, “American Family.” The docu-series aired on PBS in the early ‘70s. It was supposed to be a chronicle of everyday life for an upper middle-class family, the Louds. But it ended up documenting the break-up of a marriage as well as oldest son Lance coming out as gay on national television. Between 1991 and 2006, The Loud Family recorded seven LPs and an EP, ironically, their sound didn’t stray too far from the Game Theory’s Power Pop/Psych paradigm, and featured a few fellow Game players.

Although, neither Game Theory nor The Loud Family ever achieved massive popularity, it turns out the right people were listening. Their

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

“ACROSS THE BARRIER OF SOUND: GAME THEORY POSTSCRIPT” (OMNIVORE RECORDINGS)

music resonated for contemporaries like Pop songstress Aimee Mann, as well as the more idiosyncratic Stephen Merritt, sonic architect for myriad projects like Magnetic Fields, The 6ths, The Gothic Archies and Future Bible Heroes.

Both bands also influenced a new generation of musicians including Ted Leo, The Posies and Spoon front-man Britt Daniel, as well as members of Wilco, Guided By Voices, Okkervil River, the Orange Peels and Camper Van Beethoven. At the dawn of the 21st century, Scott and Aimee recorded a bunch of tracks together, that unfortunately, remain unreleased.

In 2010, Scott wrote a book, “Music: What Happened?” A well-received critical history of Rock N’ Roll, it displayed his encyclopedic music knowledge, as well as his wry sense of humor.

He had also decided to reactivate Game Theory, and began writing music for a new album. Sadly, inexplicably, in 2013, he took his own life, leaving behind his wife and two daughters.

At the time of his death, Game Theory albums had been out of print for decades. In 2014, the fine folks at Omnivore Recordings began to rectify that wrong. That year, they released the debut, Blaze Of Glory and included a surfeit of unreleased tracks. Working chronologically, they released the EPs, Pointed Accounts Of People You Know and Distortion on vinyl. They continued with Real Nighttime, skipped ahead to Lolita Nation, doubled back for The Big Shot Chronicles and wrapped up with Two Steps From The Middle Ages. Each release was lovingly curated on vinyl as well as CD, the latter format featured anywhere from 11 to 21 bonus tracks, most were previously unreleased.

But there was a blip of time at the end of Game Theory’s run that had never been properly documented. In 1989 Scott assembled a new line-up. Game drummer Gil Ray was shifted to keys and guitar, ex-ALRN drummer Jozef Becker stepped behind the kit and charismatic ex-Three O’ Clock front-man Michael Quercio provided bass and backing vocals.

This latest incarnation undertook a mini-tour and recorded a slew of songs. Unfortunately this iteration of the band split over geographical differences. Scott preferred to stay in the Bay Area, while Michael was still very much a denizen of Los Angeles, Jozef’s residence was somewhere in-between. Scott continued on with the Louds and Michael started fresh, forming his second most excellent band, Permanent Green Light.

Thanks to the fine folks at Omnivore, as well as Dan Vallor, Game Theory’s tour manager and sound engineer, these last, lost songs are finally seen the light of day as “Across The Barrier Of Sound: Postscript.” Spread across 24 tracks are a treasure trove of home demos, home recordings, completed versions, scattered live tracks and cover songs. Accordingly, the album opens with just Scott and his guitar, offering a nakedly vulnerable take on the Beatles’ “All My Loving.” Slower and more contemplative than the original, his fragile vocals are buttressed by amplified acoustic notes.

Even at their most embryotic, the demos display Scott’s knack for sophisticated songcraft.

From the breathless jingle-jangle of “Go Back To Sleep Little Susie (Aerodeleria),” which blends sing-song vocals and an acoustic approximation of Who-ish power chords, to the downstroke electric riff-age that seems to presage Grunge, on the schoolyard angst of “The Second Grade Applauds.” The fractious guitar nearly overshadows efficacious lyrics like “Casual virtue, actions neatly chained, rule-driven heartbreak unexplained/Slips in mid-step, glass across the floor, fine china no more.” Then there’s the

BY ELENI P. AUSTIN

achingly pure chime of “Laurel Canyon (Reprise)” and the pastoral grace of “Even You.” Shimmery acoustic guitar tangles with chunky electric notes, and Scott’s vocals slither through on this mournful relationship post-mortem.

The whoosh-y keys that open “Jimmy Still Comes Around” weirdly echo the original theme from Disneyland’s Main Street Electrical Parade, before they are supplanted by strippeddown electric guitar and pulsating synths. Time signatures shift as Scott unspools the decadent saga of Jimmy who continues to live like it’s 1969 when “Every vice of the age is indulged and engaged.”

Even as the meandering melancholy of “Some Grand Vision” seems to parallel the bespoke brilliance of antecedents like Beach Boy Brian Wilson and the late Nick Drake, the spiralscratch solitude of “The Come On” anticipates the whispery charms of Elliott Smith and Sufjan Stevens.

While the home demos are inviting, intimate and somewhat monochromatic, the finished songs, featuring the whole band, feel like a thrilling explosion of technicolor. “My Free Ride” crackles with a candy-coated crunch. Fizzy keys and fuzzy guitars collide with throbbing bass lines and walloping backbeat. Scott and Michael’s stacked harmonies ooh and ahh irresistibly.

The lyrics search for some emotional rescue; “I’m looking for someone that I can call my own who I can call my own in time.” The energy and enthusiasm is palpable.

“Take Me Down (To Halloo)” is sun-dappled and summery Chiming acoustic guitars envelope rippling electric riffs, airy keys, rubbery bass lines and sturdy rhythm. The lyrics paint reality with brutal brush-strokes; “It was a chilly day in the big time, so we took our act to the five-and-dime (take me down, take me down) and I don’t want to cry as our days waltz by/with our worlds in backyards, down in splinters and shards on the ground.” The only antidote is a trip to “Halloo,” short for Halloo-cination town.”

“Treat It Like My Own” opens with a great fakeout, a snippet of phased and Funkified wah-wah bass lines that recall the insistent opening notes of The O’Jays’ classic, “For The Love Of Money.”

But it’s quickly usurped by braided acoustic and electric notes, kaleidoscopic keys, angular bass and a tambourine shake. The melody settles into something of an Elizabethan roundelay, while the lyrics can almost be characterized as wildly optimistic (at least for Scott); “I was sad, but I guess life is okay, now I can see that it’s all for me/Now I can see that the world is not a statue in stone, I can treat it like my own.”

The iridescent Sunshine Pop of “Inverness” wouldn’t seem out of place on a Cowsills album.

Powered by fluttery flute, strummy guitars, beestung bass lines, tumbling player piano and a seesaw beat. The Feelin’ Groovy feeling is slightly

undercut as Scott confides “At night I know, there’s someplace I can go, when there’s no placing waking light/And I’ll dream clichés that I’ve dreamed a thousand ways, I’m not above clichés tonight, the playground viewed from blessed height.”

Finally, there’s the crushed velvet groove of “Idiot Son.” Cascading guitars, wiry bass lines and coltish keys are tethered to a galloping gait.

Scott and Michael’s honeyed harmonies coalesce on the chorus, but Scott goes it alone on verses that admonish a degenerate dad who gambles away his son’s future; “Father, you know that I don’t mean disrespect, but the house is winning, I don’t want to be here when they collect/Father, the gratis-riding days couldn’t last, smoking courtesy cigarettes and and rolling up the tinted glass.” The arrangement shapeshifts on the break, kicking the breakneck beat into overdrive.

The song closes with staccato, backwards guitar notes.

The covers featured here offer a sideways homage to early influences. Scott and Michael offer a note perfect home demo of The Nazz’s “Forget All About It.” Boyish harmonies lattice over snarly electric guitar and sugary acoustic riffs. Even though the attack is bare-bones and primitive it can’t lessen the song’s power.

Armed with just a flange-y guitar, Scott approximates the Glitter-Glam grit of Brian Eno’s “Needles In The Camel’s Eye.” Live, Michael (tongue firmly in cheek) introduces “a song made famous by Naked Eyes” and the band launch into a sweetly shaggy rendition of the Monkees’ “Door Into Summer.” Solo, with only an acoustic guitar, Scott tenders an incandescent version of Big Star’s “Back Of My Car,” for a radio broadcast.

Other stand out tracks include a tough-minded take on The Three O’ Clock’s “A Day In Erotica” and the slippery “Rose Of Sharon.” Ringing guitars and a sunny melody nearly camouflage the suicidal gesture of “Slit My Wrists.” There’s a shambolic live take of “Sword Swallower” and winning demos of “Idiot Son” and “Inverness” that feel as fully realized as the completed versions. The former opens with a cluster of acoustic arpeggios that share some musical DNA with Love’s classic “Alone Again Or.” The latter closes the album and features harpsichord-y keys and sparkly acoustic riffs. (There’s also a hidden track, a free-wheeling and ramshackle version of ALRN’s “When She’s Alone.”)

“Across The Barrier Of Sound” is not your typical “odds and sods” compilation. Free of the usual ephemera that dots these kinds of collections, it serves as an essential musical map that charts a course from the late days of Game Theory to the early days of The Loud Family. Several of these songs turned up in more polished forms on the Louds’ debut, Plants And Birds And Rocks And Things in 1993.

Game Theory music can feel elusive and cryptic, powered by complex chord structures along with dense and intricate lyrics. But once you unlock the mystery, the rewards are rich and resonant. Much like Big Star, Game Theory will continue to influence tuned-in musicians and discriminating fans for decades to come.

On April 4th, Scott Miller would have celebrated his 60th birthday. Born in 1960, he certainly would have appreciated the symmetry.

Although he’s gone forever, he’s left us a sadly beautiful and bittersweet parting gift.

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

A

PET PLACE

picture says a thousand words. This photo of a homeless pup named Benny shows his love and joy upon learning Diane Chenowith, his foster mom, wants to adopt him. Diane has fostered many dogs for Loving All Animals during the past 4 years, but Benny is the first pup she decided to keep forever.

Diane reports, "Benny is so sweet and mellow, he puts his little paw on me very gently when he wants my attention. I absolutely love this little guy!". Working at home during the quarantine, Diane enjoys having a little buddy to go for walks outdoors and to cuddle with in the evening.

The companionship of pets has been shown to reduce stress and lower anxiety, helping people to feel calmer and more secure during a time when the world news is so distressing. Families with children who can't visit with their friends can enjoy happy kisses and hugs from a rescue dog. Seniors who feel alone and isolated can benefit from a purring cat cuddling happily on their lap.

Amid new concerns that some pet owners might relinquish their animals during the economic downturn, shelters and rescues are hoping that more people will open their hearts to a rescue pet. Are you thinking about fostering or adopting a homeless pet? What are some of the myths about fostering an animal from a shelter or rescue? Here are some of those myths, and some information that can help you decide.

MYTH #1 - ANIMALS IN SHELTERS ARE "DAMAGED GOODS" WITH PROBLEMS FACT: The vast majority of pets in shelters are healthy, happy creatures whose only crime is not having a home. They end up in shelters when their humans become incapacitated or pass away. Others are unclaimed strays who may be a bit frightened when brought to a shelter, but happily thrive given a second chance home. Diane Chenowith enthusiastically challenges this myth, "I've never had a foster dog that caused any damage or created any problems in my home. When they arrive, they are so happy to be here. I show them around and tell them the house rules, and they always agree!

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

MYTHS ABOUT FOSTERING & ADOPTING A RESCUE PET

Getting a rescue dog is so much easier than you can imagine. And It's so rewarding."

MYTH #2 - I CAN'T FOSTER BECAUSE I ALREADY HAVE PETS FACT: While there are a few dogs and cats that don't care for other animals, most animals do well if provided the proper introduction. You pet can help socialize and train the newcomer. Most animals needing fostering have already passed a quarantine period. There is good information online about effective methods to introduce a new animal to your other pets.

MYTH #3 - MY HOME OR APARTMENT IS TOO SMALL It really depends. Some large active dogs may require more space, including a fenced in yard. Many small dogs, and all cats, do fine in apartments. No matter where you live, there is a waiting animal that will fit into your home and lifestyle.

MYTH #4 - FOSTERING A PET WILL COST ME MONEY FACT: During the foster period, the shelter or rescue group pays for all veterinary care, including vaccinations and spaying or neutering. Most organizations provide you with pet food and needed supplies.

MYTH #5 - I WILL BE TOO SAD WHEN THEY LEAVE TO BE ADOPTED FACT: You might shed a tear when you say

goodbye, but think about how sad that animal feels sitting in a shelter kennel after losing its family. Many foster parents receive happy updates from the adopters, and some even offer to pet sit.

MYTH #6 - FOSTERING OR ADOPTING A PET WILL TIE ME DOWN FACT: While we are all under "stay at home" orders, this one does not apply. This is a good time to take in a new pet because you have time to train it and help it assimilate into your family.

MYTH #7 - I WILL WANT TO ADOPT THEM ALL! FACT: The vast majority of animal foster parents understand they are part of the animal's journey to become prepared for their forever home. However, it's happily called a "foster failure" when the foster parent decides to adopt. Dogs instinctively know our intent, and Benny is overjoyed about his happy ending.

Below is a partial list of shelters and rescues in the Inland Empire that have animals for adoption. Some of them also offer foster programs. The information is current as we go to print, but please call them for updates as things can change. If you cannot adopt or foster right now, consider making a donation to one of these private rescues as they rely on public donations.

COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS - This large county shelter is now closed for adoptions. You can view the animals at all 4 county shelters at rcdas.org, and get the ID number of the animal(s) you want to meet.

Email them with the animal's ID number at shelterinfo@rivco.org and call (760) 3433644. Located at 72050 Pet Land Place, Thousand Palms. (Public) PALM SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER - Shelter closed, but you can call for an appointment to adopt. They schedule appointments Wednesday through Monday, closed on Tuesday. View their animals online at psanimalsshelter.org, 4575 E. Mesquite Ave, Palm Springs, (760) 416-5718. (Public) ANIMAL SAMARITANS - The shelter is closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals by visiting

MEET CHELLA

MEET RINGO

I was hungry and homeless when Kittyland rescued me! I am spayed, vaccinated and ready to go to my “furever” home. I’m a 1-yr-old girl who loves humans and enjoys being with other cats. Come meet me at Kittyland, 67600 18th Ave, Desert Hot Springs. Open 12noon2pm Mon thru Sat, (760) 251-2700, www.kittylandrescue.org. (only 1 visitor at a time).

This handsome fellow would love to join you for some outdoor exercise during the quarantine! Ringo is a high energy 3-yr-old Shepherd/Huskie mix, rescued by the HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY. The shelter is open only by appointment, call (760) 329-0203 to meet Ringo or one of his buddies. Then come out to 17826 N. Indian Canyon, North Palm Springs, www.orphanpet.com.

8

BY JANET McAFEE animalsamaritans.org. Email acorrow@ animalsamaritans.org to foster. Located at 72307 Ramon Rd, Thousand Palms, (760) 6013918. (Private) CALIFORNIA PAWS RESCUE - Open for adoptions. Located at the Barkingham Pet Hotel, 73650 Dinah Shore, Palm Desert. View their animals at californiapawsrescue.com, (760) 656-3833. (Private) HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY - Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. View their animals at orphanpet.com. Located at 17825 N. Indian Canyon, Palm Springs, (760) 329-0203.

(Private) KITTYLAND - Open for adoptions, but only admit one adopter at a time. Open 12noon2pm Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Located at 67600 18th Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. kittylandrescue.org, (760) 2512700. Cats are also at PetSmart Palm Springs.

(Private) LOVING ALL ANIMALS - Shelter currently closed, dogs in foster homes. Located at 83496 Avenue 51, Coachella, lovingallanimals. org, (760) 834-7000. (Private) CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ANIMAL SHELTER - Shelter closed but you can call for an appointment to adopt. Hours for adoption 10am - 4pm Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sun/Mon. Google "City of San Bernardino Animal Shelter" to obtain website to view animals and get ID number of the animal you want to meet. Located at 333 Chandler Place, San Bernardino, (909) 384-1304 or (909) 3847272. (Public) DREAM TEAM ANGELS RESCUE - Foster based rescue located in Grand Terrace/ SanBernardino area. Contact them through DreamTeamangelsrescue.com, (360) 6888884. (Private) There is a great website Petfinder.com where you can enter your zip code and the specifications for your desired pet, and you will receive a list of nearby rescue animals.

Hugs & Wags!

Janetmcafee8@gmail.com

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

THE VINO VOICE

April 9 to April 15, 2020

BY RICK RIOZZA

UNWIND, GO ON-LINE & ORDER WINE

T

he good news for us vino enthusiasts is that wine remains an essential pleasure for many during the coronavirus pandemic. And that agreed upon notion means that, generally speaking, wineries and wine shops have been deemed essential businesses, and that they may continue to sell wine—at least online and/or taking orders on the phone for immediate delivery or by U.S. Postal, UPS, Fed Ex, etc.

Supermarkets and grocery stores also continue to sell wine; and as most of you folks know, I play the friendly neighborhood wine steward at Ralphs Market in Palm Springs. Although our wine & spirits sales have dropped considerably, I still see many shoppers in our aisles. It’s an odd thing to desire customers when social distancing is so very important. (And thank you folks for all your prayers and thoughts for our safety).

The beverage and liquor business being what it is, I have no problem having my shelves filled with product. If there is any panic buying in my wine section (and I hear

that liquor sales continue to soar), it sure doesn’t show; I’ve got a crackerjack team that keep wine, beer & spirits full on stock.

But you wine lovers should well recognize the ease of ordering wine online and letting it come to you. So as a humble form of public wine service, allow me to ramble on a bit on some wineries, wine import businesses, wine clubs, wine shops and wine bars that are taking orders and sending it your way:

Some especial friends of this Vino Voice column—those we’ve written on and have kept in touch with us, include DOCG Imports, The Organic Cellar, and Dead or Alive wine bar in Palm Springs.

We did a nice article on DOCG Imports last summer, coachellavalleyweekly.com/ ninas-italia-docg-imports , where we timed our trip to Italy to match the publication of the story. Therein we introduced owner Nina Snow whose website invites all of us wine folk to “Bring the local flavor of Italy to your table with artisan, smallproduction Italian wines. Hand selected

by Nina from vineyard to you. Italian excellence, exclusively imported for California. Check out her on-line wine shop at www.docgimports.com.

Since then, we’ve received some excellent feedback from the readers who have either traveled to San Diego to visit and eat at the Italian restaurants that Nina recommends and that have her wines on their menu, or, are now regular online customers enjoying some delicious and well-valued Italian wine that Nina can ship immediately.

Just the other day, I received an email from Nina that I’ll share below—and check out the deal indeed!!

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PUMPING SERVICE

“How can I help us make the most out of this “social distancing” time? What’s better than a good glass of wine as a loyal companion? Get 30% off all DOCG Imports wines, with a minimum order of $100, and delivery directly to your door! Use the coupon code SH30 and enjoy your favorite Natural Italian Wines at a very special price. Simply go to docgimports.com to place your order.”

Another favorite online wine company I heartily recommend is the The Organic Cellar, whose opening mantra is “Fine Organic & BioDynamic Wines of the World.” A really nice guy, Brian Cuddy is the owner, whom I’ve met at various wine trade shows and missed meeting up with in Verona, Italy a couple of years ago, when I misplaced his contact info!

If you have the time—and, I think you may, please go online and check-out his portfolio at www.theorganiccellar.com , or, if you’re by the phone, feel free to give a call and check in with your questions, requests and delights: (949) 306-5474.

I’ve enjoyed so many tasty well-valued wines that Brian has gathered from all over the world and he continues to grow his portfolio. Brian remains committed to his belief that good wine comes from good grapes, and that you should never have to sacrifice quality and great flavor for health!

Brian writes, “We believe in the health & environmental benefits of growing, producing, and drinking organic and biodynamic wines. We believe in transparency and ethical business and label our organic wines with fully certified international accreditation. We believe good wine comes from good grapes. We believe good wine can be good for you, too.”

And, of course—speaking of organic/ biodynamic wines, wine wise gal, Christine Soto, owner of the Dead or Alive (DOA) wine bar, continues to sell and deliver a variety of excellent healthy wines.

Christine writes, “Winemakers from Palm Springs Wine Fest, held at the Ace Hotel last December, stocked the shelves at DOA, meaning you don't have to search high and low for your new favorite bottle.

Support California producers and the darkest wine bar in Palm Springs by taking the best and brightest home to enjoy.”

Go online at deadoralivebar.com, or, call/text for an appointment or delivery 323-572-5702.

And this column will remain open as well to inform our readership on any other wine businesses who wish a little love & fanfare.

Contact Rick at winespectrum@aol. com. Cheers!

9

April 9 to April 15, 2020

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

BREWTALITY

I

t’s the 19 day of quarantine, and I just spent my morning watching bootleg reiki videos on YouTube so I could open my cat Lucy’s root chakra. Not the sacral chakra, mind you, the crystal pendulum I’d used to read her energy levels determined that one was totally fine. According to the crystals Lucy’s throat chakra could have used a little adjusting as well, but there were more pressing matters to attend to than my cat’s spiritual health during quarantine.

This is what social distancing and isolation was doing to us, the effects of having all the time in the world while being told we could not leave our home. My girlfriend, housemate and I had counted every tile in the kitchen (57), every weed in the back yard (63), had unsuccessfully tried to hack the dark web, and were about to begin pastlife regression-therapy sessions with our pets when I remembered something. I had hidden away a rainy-day escape plan for moments just like these. I had weed-beer, two bottles of it, and it was time to review them.

Lagunitas Brewing Company was founded in 1993 by homebrewer Tony MaGee, growing and expanding to become the 5th top-selling craft brewery in the U.S in 2013. Lagunitas lost their craft brewery status in 2015, when Heineken international purchased 50% stake in the company.

MaGee sold the remaining shares of his th

GOOD GRUB

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company to Heineken in 2017, giving them full control of Lagunitas while he remained on as CEO of the business.

Lagunitas has had long-standing associations with cannabis, getting into legal troubles and even being investigated by the ABC in 2005 for alleged weed dealing by employees. MaGee may have been lenient in punishing employees caught with cannabis, as he’s fond of quoting “It takes a lot of good weed to make great beer”.

Many of their beer labels and advertising had the numbers “420” hidden in them, so it’s to the shock of no one that Lagunitas created their first cannabis-infused product

in 2018. Dubbed Hi-Fi Hops, the series features a CBD forward (18:1 mg), a THC forward (10 mg), and a 50/50 (5:5 mg) blend of “AbsoluteXtracts” brand of oil in sparkling water. I had two bottles of the 10mg version, with my girlfriend Noni and roommate Kayla to help form opinions on the flavor, and effects of the drink. Intrepid cosmonauts all of us, we boldly put aside our other projects (aka TikTok videos) and got to work on drinking weed.

The girls split a bottle while I drank all of the other. We poured our servings into little glasses, tropical fruit and grapefruit in the nose. Noni took a tentative sip and immediately said it reminded her of Lacroix.

“It tastes a little like baby coconut; citrus and pineapple even”, she pondered with furrowed brow. Kayla agreed that it tasted citrusy, taste and nose both having notes of grapefruit to her. Not IPA drinkers, the girls were describing the different notes of flavor imparted by hops. While I suspect that this beverage uses dry-hopping to add flavor, the use of hop extracts seems intuitive along with the use of the THC oils. “It’s hoppy upfront and weedy in the end”, continues Noni, “but both very subtle”. Kayla adds “Subtle the way Lacroix is. Like, sparking water with one marijuana in it”. After a few sips, we were able to identify the main flavor as being reminiscent of a musky papaya fruit.

Hi-Fi Hops was lightly carbonated and

BY AARON RAMSON less effervescent than soda or beer. It flattened out before either of the girls had finished their half-serving each; Kayla didn’t notice a discernable change in flavor, but Noni felt it tasted less pleasant without the carbonation to sharpen the flavor. The added oils gave the beverage a slightly thicker mouthfeel than a Lacroix would have, almost having a mouthfeel similar to Red Bull. All in all, a pleasant drink with the flavors you would expect from carbonated water flavored with hop and THC oils.

About 15 minutes after my first sip I began to feel the effects, a slightly fuzzy feeling that amplified into a body high soon after. The three of us enjoyed sitting in the backyard of our shared quarantine home, enjoying a soft breeze and the way it rustled the palm trees overhead. Although Kayla and Noni had each ingested only 5 milligrams of THC in their servings, it was still enough to give a soothing and pleasant sensation. I ingested a whole 10 mg serving, and felt a deep sense of relaxation, not entirely different from the way that muscle relaxers effect. Suitably enhanced and enjoying the weather, our adventures in bootleg reiki momentarily forgotten, Hi-Fi Hops was the perfect drink for a lazy quarantined afternoon.

THE TAKEOUT SERIES: THE REAL ITALIAN DELI

hen I lived in Boston I scoured the city’s North End for Italian delis in hopes of finding a place where I could get a great sub and stock up on imported Italian groceries. Flash forward thirty years to Palm Desert’s “North End”

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LAGUNITAS HI-FI HOPS REVIEW

when I walked in to The Real Italian Deli.

John Devita’s deli and adjacent bakery stacks up favorably to any east or west coast Italian deli. The fresh-baked breads, high quality meats and cheeses, plus the house-made condiments and pickled veggies combine to make an outstanding sandwich at a reasonable price. The only thing missing is the east coast attitude of the sandwich makers.

The store is generously stocked with olive oils, ready-to-go entrees both fresh and frozen. An impressive variety of pastas, sauces, specialty canned products such as anchovy, canned tuna, sardines, octopus and San Marzano tomatoes are available.

An entire glass freezer locker is devoted to Italian desserts. Gelato, spumoni, tiramisu and cannoli tempt those with an active sweet tooth. The adjacent bakery offers beautifully displayed pastries and brads.

I suggest ordering ahead as the area around the sandwich counter is limited.

The Real Italian Deli has their act together since their business was primarily takeout prior to the advent of the Covid-19 crisis.

High quality and authentic flavors are a trademark of their cuisine. There are no bad choices here.

If only I could figure out how to shelter in place here…

BY DANIEL PARIS

The Real Italian Deli (2 Locations) 44795 San Pablo Ave. Ste. 1 Palm Desert, Ca. 92260 (760) 836-1493 Hours: M-Sat. 9-5 Sun. 11-3 and: 100 S. Sunrise Way. Ste. B Palm Springs, Ca. 92262 (760) 325-3800

I

SCREENERS

n this time of uncertainty, chaos and stress, many self-isolated film buffs are discovering forgotten but strangely relevant videos tucked away in a closet, basement or attic.

RESTORATION (1995) Michael Hoffman’s lavish historical drama caught my attention. Based on the acclaimed novel by Rose Tremain it won well-deserved Oscars for costume design and art direction.

Robert Downey plays Robert Merivel, a brilliant 17th century medical student who ignores his studies and instead chooses to pursue sensual pleasures, much to the concern of his more dedicated and serious colleague John Pearce (David Thewlis).

Merivel joins the high society status he craves when he’s summoned by King Charles II (Sam Neill), but he’s deflated to find that he’s only been called to care for the king’s

SAFETY TIPS

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No. 416

FROM THE ARCHIVES

spaniel. However, the dog recovers and Merivel joins the king’s court.

When Celia (Polly Walker), one of the king’s mistresses gets too arrogant and selfimportant, the king arranges for her to marry Merivel. In return for keeping Celia in a pretend marriage, Merivel is gifted an estate and is made a knight.

Sadly, Merivel and Celia’s love is a fail and he’s betrayed by an eccentric painter (Hugh Grant) in a way that triggers the king’s wrath.

Banished and stripped of his wealth, Merivel finds true love with an Irish mental patient (Meg Ryan). About the same time, he also rediscovers his love for medicine during London’s great fire and Black Plague.

I was struck by the timely words of Downey’s Merivel: “Fear is our greatest enemy, and hope is our greatest weapon against the disease This memorable and gorgeous-looking film about personal redemption during a time of chaos and turmoil is worth finding and watching again. DVD. Miramax.

What previously viewed, and perhaps forgotten, films have you rediscovered while self-quarantined?

FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER

EASTER SAFETY TIPS! S

earching for a hidden Easter basket is an activity that children of all ages enjoys, however, there can be a few problems if parents are not careful,” says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.”

April 9 to April 15, 2020

Before doing anything follow the CDC health guidelines: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/index.html Candy & Toy Safety: In order to prevent choking, avoid hard,

BY ROBIN E. SIMMONS

NEW BLU FOR THE HOME THEATER: JUST MERCY “Just Mercy” is based on the powerful and thought provoking true story of young Lawyer Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) and his history making battle for justice.

After graduating from Harvard, Bryan had his pick of lucrative jobs. Instead, he

heads to Alabama to defend those wrongly condemned or who were not afforded proper representation, with the support of local advocate Eva Ansley (Brie Larson).

One of his first, and most incendiary, cases is that of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), who in 1987, was sentenced to die for the notorious murder of an 18-year-old girl, despite a preponderance of evidence proving his innocence and the fact that the main testimony against him came from a criminal with a motive to lie.

In the years that follow, Bryan becomes embroiled in a labyrinth of legal and political maneuverings, as well as overt and unabashed racism as he fights for Walter, and others like him, with the odds – and the system – stacked against them.

The film is adapted from Bryan Stephenson’s best selling book “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” that spent more than 180 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list and counting. Warner Bros. robin@coachellavalleyweekly.com

BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA round candy; thick or sticky candy; or candy with nuts. Caramel, sour balls and jaw breakers can be dangerous because children’s airways are higher and narrower than an adult’s, creating a choking hazard.

Fake grass is not digestible, so keep it away from little children.

Be sure that Easter toys and dolls (such as bunnies, chicks etc) are free of choking hazards. Pieces that can be removed from a doll or toy pose a potential choking danger to small children.

Egg Safety: Eggs are a potentially hazardous food, in the same category as meat, poultry, fish, and milk. In other words, they are capable of supporting the rapid growth of diseasecausing bacteria like Salmonella. Before boiling eggs for Easter decorating/painting, they must be kept refrigerated.

Use only clean, unbroken eggs – check when you purchase. Discard dirty or broken eggs. Cool your eggs in cold water or just in the air. Be careful of hot water/scald accidents Egg Hunting: Do not hide eggs in cupboards or drawers

with dangerous products.

Do not hide eggs in, on or under glass.

Do not hide eggs in pre-existing holes in the ground or trees.

Do not hide eggs in any plant that have thorns or sharp stiff leaves, look potentially dangerous or poisonous. (Rule of thumb: If you don’t know the name of the plant, don’t put an egg in it!)

Do not hide eggs in any animal’s home, food bowl or play area.

Do not hide eggs where pesticides or poisons have recently been sprayed.

After hunting – Eggs that show cracks or damage, throw them away.

“If you keep these few simple tips in mind, you should be able to enjoy a fun, problem-free Easter celebration,” says Chief DiGiovanna.

Have a Happy Easter!

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

11

April 9 to April 15, 2020

DALEGRIBOW ON THELAW

www.coachellavalleyweekly.com

LEGAL REPRESENTATION OF THE INJURED & CRIMINALLY ACCUSED

WILL "STAY HOME" CREATE MORE HOME SCAMS?

W

ith the Corona Virus stay home order, will we receive more Home Scams? There are so many ways a bad guy can scam a good guy.

Sometimes the scammer moves into a rented home and complains that nothing works and ultimately refuses to pay any rent. The scammer then extorts money from the homeowner for the poorly maintained home and asks for $25,000-$50,000 to vacate, in lieu of the owner hiring a lawyer and filing an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit.

Others Scammers offer to just rent the home for 1 month. They often say they want it just for August when it is hot and no one wants it then.

After a month they will not leave.

The homeowner may get a call offering a discount for a home DISH network. However one must pay up-front for 6 months. The homeowner is told to go to the store to buy a green dot moneypak card. The money will be gone as soon as you read the card numbers to the con artist.

Another scam involves a driver coming to your home and suggesting a high price to buy your home. Sometimes they suggest needless repairs for the home ...or a deal on a new deck or installing an alarm system. It may mean they ask you for money to pay up front for those services?

As we age we do not always want to keep our Timeshare Homes, especially in the CV. Timeshares used to be dangerous to purchase because of FRAUD risks. Today it is also dangerous when you SELL. The scam starts when you get a call at home from a company that claims to have a buyer for your timeshare property. The caller even gives you the name and number of the prospective buyer, who confirms interest in the sale.

Sometimes someone contacts you offering to sell your timeshare and they try to get you to pay up front fees. A company, alleging to buy lots of timeshares, but only after the owner pays $500-$2000 via credit card for registration and other fees.

With respect to rental properties, be wary of listings on Craigslist for rentals by owner, or vacation rentals, as there have been many such scams. A red flag should be raised when no phone number or email address is listed. In addition, prospective renters may be asked to send money for a home rental during a major city event, such as Coachella or Stage Coach. It is highly possible that the home may not even exist, may already be rented to someone else, or may not even be for rent. Do your due diligence!

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When looking for a rental or looking to rent your home, look carefully at the spelling and language in the advertisement as they are often prepared by people from outside of the USA. You may want to check Google Maps to be sure the address exists. Also, be wary if the renter asks for money up front or asks for $40 to run a background check.

In another scam, the caller claims to be from a home utility, or a service provider-type company. The victim is told their bill is overdue, or a meter needs to be replaced at the victim's expense. The caller demands immediate payment for the overdue bill, or installation of a new meter. If payment is not received, the victim's service will be shut off. The caller demands credit card information or a Green Dot card as previously described.

Remember the bottom line is that everything is not always as it seems, all that glitters is not gold. So be careful and check before giving out any private information. If it looks too good to be true it probably is.

We must all remain diligent and stay a step ahead with the latest info and practical tips from the nation's consumer protection agency. We should all browse the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) scam alerts by topic or by most recent scams to keep up to date on current scams.

Report FRAUD and potential ID thefts by contacting: Fraud alert hotline toll free: 855-303-9470 or aging.senate.gov/fraud-hotline.

Charitable Donation Cons/ Telemarketing/ Mail/Internet Fraud: State Attorney General's Office 916-445-2021.

IRS at 800-829-1040 or forward emails to phishing@IRS.gov.

Federal Trade Commission ID Theft Hotline: 877-IDTHEFT or consumer.gov/idtheft.

Equifax: 800-525-6285 or equifax.com Experian: 888-397-3742 or experian.com.

Transunion: 800-680-7289 or transunion.com Keep the above numbers and information in a safe place just in case!

DALE GRIBOW - "TOP LAWYER" - California's Prestige Magazine, Palm Springs Life (PI/DUI) 2011-20 & "TOP LAWYER" - Inland Empire Magazine 2016- 2019 PERFECT 10.0 AVVO Peer Rating "DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE OR TEXT AND GET A DUI OR ACCIDENT... CALL A TAXI, LYFT OR UBER....THEY ARE A LOT CHEAPER THAN CALLING ME" SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE ARTICLES? CONTACT DALE GRIBOW 760-837-7500/ dale@ dalegribowlaw.com.

HEALTH

BY MICHELLE BORTHWICK

KETO, COVID AND STRESS….

WHAT TO DO?

T

he whole world is craving comfort, optimism and meaningful connection (at least, from a distance). It’s no exaggeration to say that stress levels have NEVER been higher for many people. To say these are crazy times is to put it mildly.

But we are in it TOGETHER. No matter what life might throw your way, there is always a way to stay healthy and motivated… and Keto is the perfect option for your diet right now.

We know Keto gets rave reviews for the following: Building immunity Weight loss Improved brain function Increased longevity Revs metabolism Eliminates fatigue Improved overall health Each of these is significant individually as a life-changer. However, when you really absorb the immensity of the entire list it’s quite staggering what Keto can do for you.

But, that’s not all. I wanted to save this gem for last because it is so appropriate right now.

Keto combats depression and anxiety “Women report that depression and anxiety symptoms ease withing eight days. The presence of ketones increases glutathione and are a powerful brainprotective antioxidant,” According to Neurologist and high-fat expert David Perlmutter, MD. Do you feel like you’ve tried “everything” and are having a difficult time staying calm? It may be time to consider letting Keto do the work for you.

It’s never been easier to be Keto than right now when we can take advantage of this time at home. Cooking at home gives you flexibility and you don’t have temptations of dining out.

Keto Can Be Easy I often hear that Keto is difficult or complicated. It’s really a very simple diet that seems to get complicated by “Google Coach” or other individuals who aren’t

MIND,BODY & SPIRIT

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BY BRONWYN ISON

QUARANTINE: POSITIVE THOUGHTS

I

nstead of your typical column each week I decided to share a few of my thoughts with you. As we each sit back in amazement, we’re all wondering what is next.

Hour by hour, day by day and week by week we are guaranteed incredible developments as it pertains to what we can expect in our futures. What I’d like to encourage is that you maintain a positive outlook. As an optimist, let’s look on the bright side, we’re one day closer to experiencing some normalcy. As a realist our new normal will be different than before. Yet, we can expect to gain, learn and understand the silver lining in all of this.

This weekend is Easter and I’m certain we’ll all be experiencing this Sunday much differently than in past years. Many families dress up, do Easter egg hunts, take pictures with the Easter bunny, attend church and conclude the day with a family brunch. Without a doubt you can still celebrate and honor this day in the sanctuary of your home. Consider dressing up, creating your own egg hunt, stream a LIVE church service and enjoy a homemade brunch.

Perhaps each family member can share their culinary skills and make their favorite dish that everyone can enjoy.

If you are Spring cleaning it’s a great time give back to your community. You may consider donating to your favorite charity.

Reach out to local shelters and learn if they

are accepting donations. With the recent life changes; emotionally, mentally and financially - this could be a beautiful time to help someone in need.

Today, I eavesdropped on my daughters Google hangout while she was attending one of her online classes. The teacher went around the class and asked about fifteen students, “how do you feel about distance learning?” What I heard surprised me. After three weeks of distance learning, most if not all, of the children have acclimated to this style of learning. Yet, the common thread was that they missed their friends and teachers.

Each day we are being tested. Be mindful of your perspective on our current situation. Be diligent in your ways as you continue to strive for your goals. The adjustments you’ve needed to make in your personal and professional life are positive because you’ve now learned to adapt to greater change. I congratulate each of us for finding ways to figure it out for ourselves and our families.

Until next week and from our home to yours… I wish you a Happy Easter. My God Bless you and your families.

Bronwyn Ison is the owner of EvolveYogaOnline.com (Yoga On Demand, 50+ classes, Promo Code: Evolve2020) & BetterForItNow.com. bronwyn@e-volveyoga. com

April 9 to April 15, 2020

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

WEEK OF APRIL 9

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Moses did forty years’ worth of hard work in behalf of his people, delivering them out of slavery in Egypt. Yet God didn’t allow him to enter into the Promised Land.

Why? At the end of his travails, he made a minor mistake that angered God beyond reason. Petty?

Harsh? Very much so. I’m happy to say that your fate will be very different from Moses’. Some months from now, when your labors bring you to the brink of your own personal version of the Promised Land, not even a small error will prevent you from entering and enjoying it. And what you do in the coming weeks will help ensure that later success.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Built in the third century B.C., the Colossus of Rhodes was a monumental statue of the Greek sun god. It stood in the harbor of the island of Rhodes, and was called one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Alas: An earthquake struck the area 54 years after it was finished, knocking it over and smashing it into fragments. Three centuries later, many of the chunks still lay scattered around the harbor. I offer this as a teaching story, Taurus. If there are any old psychological ruins lying around in your psyche, I encourage you to conduct an imaginary ritual in which you visualize throwing those ruins into a big bonfire. Clear the slate for the new beginnings that will be available once the COVID-19 crisis has settled down.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Argue with anything else,” writes author Philip Pullman, “but don’t argue with your own nature.” Amen! That’s always good advice for you Geminis, and it will be especially crucial in the coming weeks. A certain amount of disputation and challenging dialogue with other people will be healthy for you, even an effective way to get clarity and advance your aims. (Don’t overdo it, of course.) But you must promise never to quarrel with or criticize your own nature. You should aim at being a radiant bastion of inner harmony and a powerhouse of self-love. Do whatever’s necessary to coax all your different aspects to work together in sweet unity.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Like many Cancerians, painter Marc Chagall cultivated an intimate relationship with his dreams and fantasies. His fellow artist Pablo Picasso remarked, “When Chagall paints, you do not know if he is asleep or awake.

Somewhere or other inside his head there must be an angel.” Being a Crab myself, I know how essential it is for us to be in close connection with reverie and the imagination. Every now and then, though, there come occasions when the demands of the material world need our extra, focused attention—when our dreamy tendencies need to be rigorously harnessed in behalf of pragmatism. Now is one of those times.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Is there an influence you’re ready to outgrow, Leo? Are there teachers who have given you all they have to offer, and now you need to go in search of new founts of inspiration and education? Have you squeezed all possible value out of certain bright ideas and clever theories that no longer serve you? Are you finished with old sources of excitement that have lost their excitement? These are the kinds of questions I encourage you to ask yourself in the coming weeks.

It’ll be a favorable time to celebrate the joyful art of liberation—to graduate from what might have been true once upon a time, and prepare for the wideopen future after the COVID-19 crisis has mellowed.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your words of power in the coming days are simple: deep, low, down, below, dig, dive, and descend. I invite you to meditate on all the ways you can make them work for you as metaphors and use them to activate interesting, nourishing feelings. There’ll be very little worth exploring on the surface of life in the coming weeks, Virgo. All the hottest action and most valuable lessons will be blooming in the fertile darkness.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Before the COVID-19 crisis arrived, were you ensconced in roles that were good fits for your specific temperament and set of

© Copyright 2020 Rob Brezsny

talents? Did you occupy niches that brought out the best in you and enabled you to offer your best gifts?

Were there places that you experienced as power spots—where you felt at home in the world and at peace with your destiny? Once you’ve meditated on those questions for a while, Libra, I’ll ask you to shift gears: Meditate on how you’d like to answer similar questions about your life in the future. Once this crazy time has passed, what roles will be good fits for you? What niches will bring out the best in you?

What will be your power spots?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Fen” is a word that’s not used much these days. It means a marsh or a boggy lowland. Decades ago, Scorpio poet Marianne Moore used it in a short poem. She wrote, “If you will tell me why the fen appears impassable, I will tell you why I think that I can cross it if I try.”

In my opinion, that’s an apt battle cry for you right now. You shouldn’t be upset if people tell you that certain things are impossible for you to do. You should be grateful! Their discouragement will rile up your deep intelligence and inspire you to figure out how you can indeed do those things.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “Goodness alone is never enough,” wrote author Robert A. Heinlein. “A hard, cold wisdom is required for goodness to accomplish good. Goodness without wisdom always accomplishes evil.” I think that’s an interesting thought for you to consider during the coming weeks, Sagittarius. If you want your care and compassion to be effective, you’ll have to synergize them with tough intelligence. You may even need to be a bit ferocious as you strive to ensure that your worthy intentions succeed and the people you love get what they need.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Are there any ways in which you have been wishy-washy in standing up for what you believe in? Have you shied away from declaring your true thoughts and feelings about important issues that affect you and the people you care about? Have you compromised your commitment to authenticity and integrity for the sake of your ambition or financial gain? In asking you these questions, I am not implying that the answers are yes. But if in fact you have engaged in even a small amount of any of those behaviors, now is an excellent time to make corrections. As much as possible, Capricorn, focus on being trustworthy and transparent.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Physicist Edward Teller believed there is no such thing as “exact science.” And in his view, that’s a good thing.

“Science has always been full of mistakes,” he said.

But he added that they’re mostly “good mistakes,” motivating scientists to push closer toward the truth. Each new mistake is a better mistake than the last, and explains the available evidence with more accuracy. I suspect that you’ve been going through a similar process in your personal life, Aquarius.

And I predict that the good mistakes you’ve recently made will prove to be useful in the long run.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Few astrologers would say that you Pisceans are masters of the obvious or connoisseurs of simplicity. You’re not typically renowned for efficiency or celebrated for directness. Your strength is more likely to be rooted in your emotional riches, your ability to create and appreciate beauty, your power to generate big dreams, and your lyrical perspective on life. So my oracle for you this time may be a bit surprising. I predict that in the coming weeks, your classic attributes will be very useful when applied to well-grounded, down-to-earth activities.

Your deep feelings and robust imagination can be indispensable assets in your hard work on the nuts and bolts.

Homework: Rilke said, “If the Angel comes, it will be because you have convinced her, not by tears, but by your humble resolve to always be a beginner.” Any comments? FreeWillAstrology.com ---------------------------------------Rob Brezsny - Free Will Astrology freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

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April 9 to April 15, 2020

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